This dish is all about balance: creamy without being heavy, flavorful without being complicated, and flexible enough to adapt to what you already have in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Creamy Sausage Pasta with Cheese
- Quick and practical: Perfect for weeknights and last-minute dinners
- Rich, cheesy comfort: Creamy sauce made with real cheese
- Family-friendly: Mild flavors everyone can enjoy
- Customizable: Easy to swap proteins, pasta shapes, or add-ins
- Great leftovers: Reheats well for lunches or next-day dinners
If you’re a fan of creamy pasta dishes, this one is destined to become a regular in your rotation.
Ingredients for Easy Creamy Sausage Pasta with Cheese
Main Ingredients
- 12 ounces pasta (rigatoni, penne, or rotini)
- 14 ounces Italian-style chicken or turkey sausage, sliced or crumbled
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (if needed)
Creamy Cheese Sauce
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Seasonings and Finish
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley or extra Parmesan for garnish (optional)
Ingredient Notes and Substitutions
- Sausage: Chicken or turkey sausage keeps this recipe lighter and family-safe. Italian seasoning adds classic flavor without being overpowering.
- Alcohol-free: Chicken broth replaces wine, making this dish suitable for all ages.
- Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan melts smoothly and enhances flavor.
- Pasta: Short pasta shapes hold the sauce best, but spaghetti or fettuccine will work in a pinch.
- Lighter option: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a slightly lighter sauce.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 – Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Step 2 – Brown the Sausage
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sausage and cook for 5–6 minutes until browned and fully cooked. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Step 3 – Start the Sauce
Reduce heat to medium. Add butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1–2 minutes to deepen the flavor.
Step 4 – Build the Creamy Base
Slowly pour in chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Stir in heavy cream and Italian seasoning. Bring to a gentle simmer.
Step 5 – Add the Cheese
Lower the heat. Stir in softened cream cheese until smooth, then add Parmesan cheese a little at a time, stirring constantly.
Step 6 – Combine Everything
Return sausage to the skillet and add the cooked pasta. Toss until well coated. Use reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
Step 7 – Serve
Taste and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired. Garnish with parsley or extra Parmesan and serve warm.
Pro Tips for Success
- Soften cream cheese first to prevent lumps.
- Keep heat low once cheese is added to avoid curdling.
- Salt pasta water generously for better flavor.
- Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency.
- Use freshly grated cheese for the smoothest sauce.
Flavor Variations
- Spicy Version: Use spicy chicken sausage and extra red pepper flakes.
- Extra Cheesy: Add shredded mozzarella or provolone.
- Garlic Lover’s Twist: Add an extra clove or two of garlic.
- Veggie Add-In: Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli.
- Tomato Cream Style: Add ½ cup crushed tomatoes for a pink sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this creamy sausage pasta with:
- A crisp green salad with vinaigrette
- Garlic bread or crusty rolls
- Roasted vegetables like asparagus or green beans
It’s filling enough to stand alone but pairs beautifully with simple sides.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently with a splash of milk or broth.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as cream sauces may separate.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 600 |
| Protein | 27g |
| Carbohydrates | 46g |
| Fat | 35g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sodium | 760mg |
Nutrition values are estimates and may vary.
FAQ About Easy Creamy Sausage Pasta with Cheese
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a few hours ahead and gently reheat before serving. Add a splash of cream or broth to refresh the sauce.
What’s the best sausage to use?
Italian-style chicken or turkey sausage works best for balanced flavor without heaviness.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, simply use your favorite gluten-free pasta and cook according to package instructions.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Definitely. The flavors are mild, creamy, and comforting. Skip red pepper flakes if serving young kids.
How do I keep the sauce creamy?
Avoid high heat after adding cheese and stir constantly for the smoothest texture.
Easy Creamy Sausage Pasta with Cheese
Equipment
- large pot for cooking pasta
- large skillet
- wooden spoon or spatula
- measuring cups and spoons
- colander for draining pasta
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (rigatoni, penne, or rotini)
- 14 oz Italian-style chicken or turkey sausage, sliced or crumbled
- 1 tbsp olive oil (if needed)
- 3 tbsp butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- salt and black pepper, to taste
- red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sausage and cook for 5–6 minutes until browned and fully cooked. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- Reduce the heat to medium. Add butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1–2 minutes.
- Slowly pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Stir in the heavy cream and Italian seasoning and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Lower the heat and stir in the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the Parmesan cheese a little at a time, stirring constantly.
- Return the sausage to the skillet and add the cooked pasta. Toss until well coated, using reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
- Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired. Garnish with parsley or extra Parmesan and serve warm.
Notes
Nutrition
Final Thoughts
Easy Creamy Sausage Pasta with Cheese is a comforting, dependable recipe that delivers big flavor with minimal effort. It’s perfect for weeknights, casual entertaining, or anytime you’re craving something warm and satisfying. Once you try it, you’ll see why this creamy pasta dish earns a permanent spot in your recipe collection.